10 best long-distance moving companies in Bainbridge Island, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Bainbridge Island to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Bainbridge Island moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Bainbridge Island

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices can be overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Bainbridge Island.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, look into the options provided by your mover. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Bainbridge Island several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous customers think about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Bainbridge Island, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. Trustworthy moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid movers that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company far enough in advance is essential for a successful long-distance move. We advise scheduling your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month beforehand. You probably have fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Washington DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medicine.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it provides more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

Washington State Department of Licensing U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration